The exotic aroma of freshly ground coffee beans. The subtle hint of chamomile from an aromatic candle. The mouth-watering smell of a freshly made cake.
If just thinking about these has got your senses going – imagine the effect they will have on potential buyers for your home. A coffee bean or vanilla pod in a gently heated oven is the simplest of tricks, but it’s a proven way of making your home more attractive. If you’re putting your home on the market and want to create a good impression, there are a host of tricks that will add value to your home and give it instant appeal.
And the real issue is ‘instant’ appeal. It’s quite incredible how many people will make a life-altering decision in an instant. In fact, it only takes people a tenth of second to form a first impression – around the time it takes for a housefly to flap its wings. A little effort can add value to your home, improve its selling price and importantly, it will make those important first impressions count.
Let’s look at some things you should do.
First up, look at your home with an objective, critical eye – from the inside and the outside. You can add value by making even small cosmetic improvements. While you see a sandpit for your kids, a potential buyer will probably see an unkempt garden. You may be a pet lover, but a potential buyer may be allergic to dogs and cats. Does your home have kerb appeal? Is it presentable and tidy? Are there any visible signs of damage or wear and tear, such as peeling paint, cracked tiles or cobwebs?.
A Bentley property professional says the value of almost every home will increase with a pre-sale makeover. Here’s a list of things to start with :
· A coat of paint is a really good pre-sale investment. Choose a neutral colour scheme for the widest appeal.
· De-clutter and tidy (garden, kerb as well as the interior)
· Clean windows and remove cobwebs etc to maximise views and inside/out appeal
· In the garden, mow the lawn, rake leaves, sweep paths and driveways, clear gutters, weed and prune. Plant flowers that are in bloom so create instant appeal and vibrant colour. Cover empty flower beds with a layer of bark or wood chips.
· First impressions will be made on ‘street appeal’.
· If you have a pool ensure it’s clear of leaves and algae and the water looks inviting and clean.
· Garages and storerooms should be orderly and easily accessible.
· Replace door mats for an instant, fresh update.
· And when it comes to interiors – cleanliness and tidiness is paramount !.
· Store any extra furniture and personal effects, leaving just enough to showcase your home and create a homely ambience but still allowing potential buyers to visualize their own belongings in the spaces. Some people rent modern furniture to update the look of their home.
· For bathrooms – spotlessly clean is the only way. No mould, rust, stains, dirty rings or leaking taps.
· Floor coverings should be professionally cleaned
· Give bedrooms a stylish update with some new scatter cushions, throws, bed linen, rugs etc – look at decorating magazines for some inspiration and ideas.
And on open day – you may want to consider these ideas to create a fantastic first impression:
· Put on some soft, background music to create a welcoming mood.
· Before time, heat your oven, place a vanilla pod or some coffee beans on a tray in the oven, then turn it off. A tantalizing – yet subtle – aroma will then fill your kitchen.
· Light gently scented candles in the bathrooms and toilets.
· Put away any pet debris (eg bowls and beds) and find a pet sitter for the day
· Put all clothes and shoes away – and ensure your laundry doesn’t look like a laundry!
· Kitchen and bathroom benchtops will look longer if they are clear
· If the weather is warm, open some windows
· If the weather is cold, light a fire or put on the heater.
· Fresh flowers (preferably picked from the garden) should be placed strategically around the home.
· Be aware of leaving lights on inside the home. Potential buyers will quickly see that a home is dark if there are too many lights on.
Getting a home ready for sale does take a bit of time, effort and money. However, there’s no doubt that your investment will pay dividends say experienced property professionals in real estate Victoria Park. A small effort will make a big difference if you’re committed to getting the best possible price for your property.
